Roger Federer in action at the Australian Open in MelbourneGetty Images

Roger Federer is set to miss a month of the tennis season after undergoing knee surgery on a torn meniscus. The 34-year-old star underwent the procedure shortly after his defeat to Novak Djokovic in the semi-final stage of the Australian Open in Melbourne.

The injury means Federer has been forced to withdraw from the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam and the Free Tennis Championships in Dubai. The 17-times grand slam champion expressed his disappointment at not being able to compete in the events.

"I am so disappointed to have to miss Rotterdam and Dubai as they are two of my favourite tournaments on the ATP World Tour," explained the tennis legend, according to The Guardian.

However, Federer insisted he only expects to be out of action for a short period of time and ought to be fully fit for the three remaining grand slam tournaments of the season.

"While this is an unfortunate setback, I feel grateful that up until now I have remained mostly healthy throughout my career," the Swiss added. "My doctors have ensured me that the surgery was a success and with proper rehabilitation, I will be able to return to the tour soon."